Caceres looks set for Manchester City

CENTRAL Coast midfielder Anthony Caceres is poised for a shock move to Manchester City, with reports the English giant has agreed on an undisclosed fee.

An unnamed Japanese club also made offers for the 23-year-old, who was dropped from coach Tony Walmsley's squad last week after saying he wanted to leave the Mariners.

Central Coast owner Mike Charlesworth has reportedly been discussing terms with the EPL heavyweight, which recently took on former Brisbane Roar star Luke Brattan.

According to reports, a deal should be done by the weekend.

Caceres is thought to have a $500,000 release clause in his contract.

But it is believed the City Football Group will pay less than half that figure.

Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory and Western Sydney have also expressed interest, but Sky Blues coach Graham Arnold said he did not think the Mariners would want to let Caceres play for a rival A-League outfit.

"I think Anthony is probably one of their most-prized assets," he said.

"Knowing Mike Charlesworth, he wants money.

"If they're going to let him go anywhere, I'd say it would be for a sale.

"I don't think they'd hand him over to any other A-League club."

Mariners coach Tony Walmsley admitted the club was resigned to losing Caceres, but said he hoped to announce two signings in the coming days.

He also said 21-year-old striker Josh Bingham would replace suspended centre forward Roy O'Donovan for tonight's home game against Melbourne Victory, being played in Geelong.

Melbourne has regained attacking midfielder Gui Finkler after the Brazilian missed the past two games with a calf injury.